FIRST August 2023

HOLIDAY

“One day, in retrospect, the years of struggle will strike you as the most beautiful.”

SIGMUND FREUD

Emily Paula’s Home Masterpiece

“This armchair was the first thing that I found for this house and Humphrey here was the last. I loved the idea of a four-poster bed and panelling for the bedroom which I then paired with this perfect shade of paint. I love the result!

Emily Paula

40 years ago on 27th July 1983 Madonna Louise Ciccone burst onto the music scene with her selftitled debut album featuring mega-hits Lucky Star, Borderline, and Holiday Holiday would become the third single from the album and Madonna’s breakthrough, becoming a massive success globally and her first single to make the Billboard Hot 100, reaching No. 16. The track also became her first No. 1 dance song (as a double-A-side single, with Lucky Star), and solidified her position as a rising star, and setting the stage for future hits. 40 years later Holiday feels synonymous with sun on your face and the beach beneath your toes –“If we took a holiday, took some time to celebrate, just one day out of life, it would be, it would be so nice.” Madonna

“I’ve been popular and unpopular, successful and unsuccessful, loved and loathed and I know how meaningless it all is. Therefore I feel free to take whatever risks I want.”

Madonna

SERIES: THIS IS WINE. Puligny-Montrachet. The hills of Montrachet, Burgundy. PhotographGilles Guillamot.

LA DOLCE VITA. Escape to Taormina –San Domenico Palace, a Four Seasons Hotel. Photograph © Peter Vitale/Four Seasons.

INTERIORS.Haute Bohemians:Greece. Photography Miguel Flores-Vianna, courtesy Vendome Press.

WANDERLUST. Portugal. Postcard from Faro. Photography Micheile Henderson.

FINE ART. RUBENS RE-EMERGES. Photography courtesy Sotheby’s.

APERITIVO. Milan Café Culture. Camperino in Galleria. Photo courtesy Campari Group.

ESCAPE TO TAORMINA

SAN DOMENICO PALACE

During the five centuries when San Domenico Palace was a convent, its residents were focused on a life of quiet contemplation. But when the convent was expanded to become a hotel in 1896, it quickly became a lively and glamorous destination for the world’s rich and famous. In the years at the end of the 1800s, the Sicilian coastal town of Taormina had just been discovered by the world at large, with visitors marvelling at the vibrant colours of the sea and sky, the ancient monuments and the majestic live volcano of Mount Etna. Taormina became a popular destination for painters, along with French and German tourists who were attracted by the town’s reputation for sexual freedom and wild parties. The combination of this intriguing town and a new grand hotel immediately established San Domenico Palace as an essential destination for luxury travel in fin de siècle Europe. When Four Seasons hospitality company assumed management of the property in 2020, San Domenico Palace underwent a multimillion dollar makeover. Now, this iconic destination has begun a new era as a Four Seasons hotel, promising to continue its legendary reputation for a new generation.

Photography courtesy Four Seasons.

Tis page: Perched on a rocky promontory high above the Ionian Sea, Taormina's iconic San Domenico Palace, a Four Seasons Hotel, welcomes you to a 14th-century convent reimagined. Photograph © Peter Vitale/Four Seasons.

“Were a man to spend only one day in Sicily and ask, “What must one see?” I would answer him without hesitation, “Taormina.” It is only a landscape, but a landscape where you find everything on earth that seems made to seduce the eyes, the mind and the imagination.”

Guy de Maupassant

The origins of San Domenico Palace date back to 1203, with the founding of the Dominican religious order by Saint Dominic in Toulouse, France. One of the most important religious organisations in the history of the Catholicism, the order spread across Europe, leading to the establishment of a San Dominican convent in Taormina in 1374. The convent was first based in a small church - at the time a convent could imply a community of either monks or nuns.Many religious communities were supported by rich patrons, and for the Dominicans in Taormina, their benefactor was Baron Damiano Rosso d’Altavilla (for whom Rosso restaurant is now named).

Rosso made his first gift to the order in 1388 and converted to the monastic life himself. His largest gift was given in 1430, five years after his death, having bequeathed his residence to the religious community so that it could be turned into a convent. His home was the oldest in Taormina, situated next to the church of Santa Agata, in a beautiful location overlooking the Ionian Sea. The convent was established and remained a small community, never exceeding 40 members.

Tis page: A view of San Domenico Palace from Teatro Antico di Taormina, the Greek theatre. Photograph © Peter Vitale/Four Seasons

This page: One of the greatest challenges in the recent renovation was the work on the Hotel’s Ancient Cloister, the Hotel’s most sober and meditative area, hearkening back to convent days of quiet contemplation. Over the course of centuries, the 14th century columns had become encased in lime scale. It took three months of chiseling and ultimately drilling to remove the lime scale and restore the ancient columns. Photography San Domenico Palace Cloister Courtyard © Four Seasons.

In 1866, more than 400 years after the death of Damiano Rosso, a new state law was passed, designed to suppress religious orders and confiscate their assets. Representatives of the new Italian state came to take possession of the valuable convent building. Just a single monk remained, Vincenzo Bottari Cacciola, and he did not want to abandon his centuries-old cell. The government officials actually had to use force to take the keys. Offended by the arrogance of the state and convinced of his own righteousness, the monk decided to take action. He unearthed an ancient document that had been kept in secret by the brothers: the original will of Damiano Rosso. It stated that the property had only been lent to the Dominicans – meaning it could not be requisitioned by the state. The monk took the will to a descendant of Damiano Rosso who was then able to reacquire ownership rights to the convent. The monk was permitted to remain in his cell for the rest of his life, satisfied at having punished the anti-clerical state. The building’s new owner was Prince Cerami (for whom Principe Cerami restaurant is named), and it was his vision to transform the convent into a hotel. In 1896, he added a large wing in the Liberty architectural style, creating one of Europe’s first grand hotels. At this same time in the late 1800s, Taormina was becoming a fashionable location for European tourists, attracted by the beautiful scenery and the town’s reputation for wild parties and a liberal atmosphere. Capitalising on this reputation, the hotel soon found success, becoming one the most renowned destinations in the world.

SUMMER IS A STATE OF MIND. IT'S TIME TO RELAX, LADIES.

Jimmy Crystal's polycarbonate lenses offer maximum impact resistance for sunglasses, providing unparalleled eye protection. Expertly crafted and embellished with crystals, the collection exudes elegance while ensuring 100% UV/UVB protection.

Available at both the Hilton and Qawra outlets.

This page: Lush Italian gardens at San Domenico Palace. Four Seasons tasked accomplished Italian landscape Marco Bay with the mission to reimagine the storied gardens. Bay’s design philosophy is that every project starts from principles, such as architecture and respect for history and the ecosystem of a site. Bay envisioned each of San Domenico Palace’s outdoor areas as a “room” with its own identity. Top: Photograph © Peter Vitale/Four Seasons. Below: Photograph San Domenico Palace © Four Seasons.

Through the early 1900s, the hotelattracted nobility and famous writers and artists, such as King Edward VII of England, the second Baron Rothschild, Oscar Wilde and DH Lawrence. Lawrence and his wife were guests at San Domenico Palace in the early 1920s and some say Taormina was the birthplace of his notorious novel Lady Chatterley’s Lover, which tells the tale of an English noble woman’s affair with a humble gamekeeper. The story was apparently inspired by a sexual liaison between Lawrence’s wife and a local donkey driver.

During World War II, San Domenico Palace was used as a headquarters by the German army, and as a result, it was bombed by the Allies in 1943. The convent’s church was almost totally destroyed and required reconstruction, using elements of the original architecture.

After World War II, San Domenico Palace again became a meeting place for intellectuals such as Henry Miller, Truman Capote and Tennessee Williams. It also served as a fashionable place to see and be seen for the film and

world– and Americans arrived in

theatre

droves.Hidden behind the pseudonym of Miss Harriet Brown, Greta Garbo visited San Domenico Palace incognito, while she stayed at a nearby villa for 29 years of holidays in Taormina. Countless starlets were drawn by the hotel’s magical social whirlwind, among them Ingrid Bergman, Maria Callas, Ava Gardner, Rita Hayworth, Sophia Loren and Anna Magnani.

Above: La Sala della Grande Madia, displaying artefacts dating from the 16th to the 18th century, following the Sicilian and Neapolitan school, which belonged to the San Domenico Monastery. Photograph © Peter Vitale/Four Seasons. Right: San Domenico Palace Teatro Suite.

Photograph © Peter Vitale/Four Seasons. Below right: San Domenico Palace Teatro terrace. Photograph © Peter Vitale/Four Seasons.

The early 1960s brought visits by Audrey Hepburn and England’s Princess Margaret. The most famous cinematic couple of the era, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, came to San Domenico

Palace for a romantic escape after meeting during the filming of Cleopatra in 1963. The two returned in 1967 and had a furious argument on the terrace of their suite. The fight included Liz breaking a mandolin over Dick’s head.

Top and Bottom: San Domenico Palace Princess Cecile Suite. Photograph © Peter Vitale/Four Seasons.

When Four Seasons hospitality company assumed management of the property in 2020, San Domenico Palace underwent a multimillion dollar makeover driven by two women who played a key role in its renovation: architect Valentina Pisani, who oversaw the design of both the interior and outdoor spaces, and Rosaria Catania Cucchiara, head of the historical restoration project. With their passion, determination and expertise, both women made a significant contribution to the rebirth of this historical property which reopened as a Four Seasons Hotel on July 1, 2021.

Pisani oversaw the design of all interiors of the Hotel, including guest rooms, the Bar & Chiostro featuring the Grand Cloister, Principe Cerami restaurant as well as the gym, the outdoor infinity pool and its poolside restaurant Anciovi. Her interiors respectfully blend with the

historic features of the Hotel, bringing a contemporary elegance to the spaces. Her design is characterized by light colours and neutral tones, occasionally peppered by vivid colours, such as the coral red in the main hall, Sala della Grande Madia, and aqua green in the Princess Cecilie Suite.Smoked mirrors and bronze details enrich the spaces, as does the use of prestigious materials, such as marble from Patagonia for the rooms, marble from Breccia Carrara for the bathrooms, and Modica stone floors in the reception area combined with black marble from Port Laurent in Morocco.

With its history dating back to the 1400s, San Domenico Palace is a jewel of Sicilian art history. One of the most important challenges in the Hotel’s renovation was the restoration of all the works of art,

as well as the

features.For

paintings, frescos and statues,

period

the San Domenico project, Catania Cucchiara headed up an all-female team of four art restoration specialists.

Top: Gorgeous views from San Domenico Palace's Anciovi Restaurant. Photograph © Four Seasons. Above left: Sophisticated drinks and all day dining, serving Sicilian specialties and classic international dishes at the bar or in the Grand Cloister. San Domenico Palace Bar Chiostro. Photograph © Peter Vitale/Four Seasons. Above right: Principe Cerami is San Domenico Palace, a Four Seasons Hotel’s Michelin star restaurant, with sweeping vistas of Mount Etna and Taormina Bay. Here Etna-born celebrated chef Massimo Mantarro presents quintessential Sicilian cuisine showcasing local ingredients and traditions. Photograph © Peter Vitale/Four Seasons.

One of the greatest challenges was the work on the Hotel’s Ancient Cloister. Over the course of centuries, the 14th century columns had become encased in lime scale. It took three months of chiselling and ultimately drilling to remove the lime scale and restore the ancient columns. But when it comes to her favourite work of art in Taormina, Catania Cucchiara has a surprising recommendation. “Watching the sunrise each morning from the terrace during the renovation was a very special treat. Nature ultimately does offer the most beautiful spectacle, and the view from the Hotel is like no other.”

NEW COLLABORATION WITH DOLCE&GABBANA CASA DEBUTS AT SAN DOMENICO PALACE, TAORMINA, A FOUR SEASONS HOTEL.THE COLOUR OF THE SEASON IS BLU MEDITERRANEO. Just in time for its second birthday as a Four Seasons, this July San Domenico Palace unveiled its new poolside set up in collaboration with Dolce&Gabbana. Until the end of the 2023 season the Hotel’s iconic pool area and gardens will be decked out in Dolce&Gabbana’s “Blu Mediterraneo” motif, a deep blue and white pattern inspired by majolica pottery. The takeover involves a range of products from Dolce&Gabbana including umbrellas, towels, cushions, pillows, cabanas, trays, coasters and other decorative objects.

This page: San Domenico Palace Dolce&Gabbana collaboration. Here the 21-metre infinity pool blends with the Ionian Sea. Photographs © Peter Vitale/Four Seasons.

A GLORIOUS, INTIMATE HOMAGE TO THIS MAGICAL COUNTRY FROM BESTSELLING PHOTOGRAPHER AND WRITER MIGUEL FLORES VIANNA

HAUTE BOHEMIANS GREECE

the world over. Yet, at the same time, it is also home to an organic architectural language, the product of centuries of rural and island lifestyles, an heir both to the timelessness of classical architecture and the simplicity of rustic living. This stunning new volume Haute Bohemians: Greece, published by Vendome Press, chronicles Flores-Vianna's photographic odyssey through the beautiful Greek landscape, showcasing both historical houses and the homes of those who live there today. From the sophisticated residences of collectors and painters, to tavernas, royal follies, sailboats, and breathtaking scenery –all bathed in the glow of ethereal light. A self-confessed “Hellenophile” who has visited Greece countless times since his childhood, Flores-Vianna invites us to join him in paying tribute to his beloved adopted nation, capturing the character and patina of this enchanting country through his trademark intimate, atmospheric photography, and allowing his armchair travel companions to be transported there through his lens.

“There are many kinds of poets. There are poets who slide words across the page, who cause language to obey half-remembered dreams. There are painters who paint with lyrical brushstrokes. There are architects who build structures that rise according to some internal verse. Poets of any stripe are those rare few who transcend the everyday; they dwell in the ethereal, in the spectral space of magic.”

Miguel Flores-Vianna

Photography Miguel Flores-Vianna, courtesy Vendome Press.

“How do I do this?” I wondered to myself when approached to do a book on Greek interiors, writes Miguel Flores-Vianna in the introduction to his stunning new volume Haute Bohemians: Greece. “How do I do the country justice?” In one way or another, Greece has been a constant part of the rhythm of my life. My love for this land is profound– this land which welcomes me every summer, making me feel that I am one of its own. Thinking more deeply about the book, I felt that doing something which focused solely on summer places owned by people who lived far away would present a very one-sided view of the country, and would do a great disservice to the rich and varied culture of present-day Greece as well as its extraordinary and lyrical past.“

In 2017, while putting the finishing touches to his first Haute Bohemians book, Flores-Vianna visited the Canary Islands to photograph the house of Min Hogg, the former magazine editor and style-maker, who co-founded The World of Interiors in 1981. In a 1983 interview with The New York Times Hogg described her approach as celebrating homes personalised by their residents, and that she wanted to promote eclecticism, vintage style, and individualism, not modernism or minimalism– ‘’Over the years I’ve seen millions of places improved by the people who live there and not by decorators,’’ she said. ‘’When the chance came to edit this magazine I decided that I would show people, not the usual interiors done by decorators.’’ The meeting would leave an impression on Flores-Vianna.

“Faced with the somewhat daunting task of showing a country through these pages, I asked myself “What would Min have done?” As I selected the various properties, photographed them, and then later chose which photos to include, I followed one connecting thread – authenticity. I decided that each of these places, whether old or new, lived-in or a historical destination, should be a true representation of those who had created it, an extension of their inhabitants’ lives and one that clearly spoke of the geography of their experiences. I wanted to be moved by these spaces– thinking that, if they had that effect on me, they would also be able to move whoever holds this book. I determined that each place should represent a real point of view, which may not necessarily be my own but, because of its authenticity, could be understood across all tastes and cultures.“

“Although I do not have any Greek blood, Greece has touched my whole family in many ways. Both my parents traveled its territory extensively from a young age and grew to love it immensely. My mother often told me about arriving in Santorini in the late 1950s to be greeted by locals holding flaming torches to welcome one of the first group of tourists to visit the island. My father was always happy to tell how his doubts about pursuing a medical career had been allayed during a visit to Delphi.“

“My own love for Greece started long before I ever set foot in the country. It began in 1967, at a children’s Mardi Gras party at the Club Social in Posadas, Argentina. My mother, who had

just returned from a visit to the Peloponnese, had decided that I would attend the ball dressed as an evzone, a soldier of the Greek Royal Guard.I loved the attention I got that evening. Everybody asked me what was I dressed as.

“Soldado de la Guardia Real Griega,” was my proud reply.“

ABOUT THE AUTHOR. Miguel Flores-Vianna has been a photographer, writer, and editor for more than 20 years. He is the author of the bestselling Haute Bohemians, selected as the design book of the year by the New York Times T magazine, and A Wandering Eye: Travels with My Phone. His photography has been featured in a number of other books, including Near and Far by Lisa Fine, Décors Barbares by Nathalie Farman-Farma, and At Home by Isabel Lopez-Quesada, and he is a regular contributor to magazines such as Cabana and AD. He lives in London.

HAUTE BOHEMIANS: GREECE by Miguel FloresVianna. Published by Vendome Press. Hardcover with jacket. 368 pages, more than 200 colour illustrations.

CAMPARINO IN GALLERIA

Milan café culture

Campari, the iconic Italian spirit, was founded in Milan in 1860 by Gaspare Campari and later led by his son, Davide Campari. Its closely guarded recipe remains unchanged since its creation. The vibrant red liquor boasts a unique blend of bitterness, sweetness, and herbal notes, achieved through the infusion of bitter herbs, aromatic plants, fruit peels, and spices in alcohol and water. In 1915, Davide Campari opened the legendary bar, Camparino in Galleria in Milan's Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II opposite to Caffè Campari, established by his father, Gaspare, in 1867. Camparino quickly became an instant hit, and in 2015 celebrated its 100th anniversary. It remains synonymous with Milan's aperitivo tradition.

In 1915, Davide Campari opened Camparino as a "younger brother" to Caffè Campari. It featured an innovative system delivering a constant supply of soda water from the cellars, ensuring that customers could always enjoy perfectly chilled Campari and soda. Throughout its long history, Camparino has been a beloved gathering place for artists, intellectuals, and locals. Its elegant interior boasts an art nouveau design, exuding a classic ambiance that takes visitors on a nostalgic journey. A major highlight is the iconic bar counter made of exquisite marble, adorned with a striking Campari logo inlaid with mosaics. This emblematic counter is a favorite spot for patrons to savor Campari-based cocktails.

Camparino is renowned for its signature drink, the "Campari Soda", a refreshing mix of Campari and soda water served over ice, garnished with lemon or orange. The café also offers various Campari-based cocktails, classic drinks, and traditional Italian dishes, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists. Visiting Camparino provides an opportunity to experience the heritage of Campari and immerse oneself in Milan's vibrant café culture, where tradition, artistry, and aperitifs converge, making it a must-visit spot for those interested in Campari's history and Milanese culture.

PHOTOGRAPHY: INSIDE MILAN'S GALLERIA VITTORIO EMANUELE II, PHOTOGRAPHY RADU SPATARU. INSIDE CAMPARINO; CAMPARINO EXTERIOR BY NIGHT; CAMPARI SPRITZ –

CAMPARI GROUP.

APERITIVO TIME

Campari is a popular aperitif enjoyed on its own or as a key ingredient in cocktails, including the classic Negroni, which originated in the early 20th century and is attributed to Count Camillo Negroni in Florence who asked a bartender to replace the soda water in his favorite cocktail, the Americano, with gin. The traditional Negroni recipe consists of equal parts Campari, gin, and sweet vermouth. The drink has a unique flavour profile that combines the bitter notes of Campari with the herbal and botanical flavours of gin and the sweetness of vermouth.

CLASSIC NEGRONI. 1 OUNCE (30 ML) CAMPARI, 1 OUNCE (30 ML) GIN, 1 OUNCE (30 ML) SWEET VERMOUTH, ORANGE PEEL OR ORANGE SLICE (FOR GARNISH).

Mix Campari, gin, and vermouth in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir 20-30 seconds to properly chill and dilute the cocktail. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with an orange peel twist or an orange slice for added flavour and visual appeal.

The Campari Spritz is a refreshing and popular variation of the classic Spritz, combining Campari's bitterness with the effervescence of sparkling wine and soda water, served in a wine glass with ice.

CAMPARI SPRITZ. 2 OUNCES (60 ML) CAMPARI, 3 OUNCES (90 ML) PROSECCO OR ANY OTHER DRY SPARKLING WINE, 1 OUNCE (30 ML) SODA WATER, ORANGE SLICE OR TWIST (FOR GARNISH). Fill a large wine or stemmed glass with ice cubes. Add Campari. Pour in Prosecco or sparkling wine, followed by soda water. Stir gently to mix. Garnish with an orange slice or twist for added flavour and styling.

In 1860 Gaspare Campari invented a liquid so distinctive and revolutionary that it has not been altered since. As Gaspare’s passion grew together with the brand, he identified an opportunity to run his business from the newly built Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Il overlooking the iconic Piazza Duomo, the cultural epicentre of Milano. Here Davide

Campari, heir of the Campari business, was born on November 17th, 1867. The creativity and passion of Gaspare and his son Davide were so strong that their genius lives on through the brand, over 160 years later.

“I’m just a simple man standing alone with my old brushes, asking God for inspiration.”

Peter Paul Rubens

RUBENS RE-EMERGES

Saint Sebastian Tended By Two Angels

canvas to a Rubens referenced in the wills and inventories of the Spinola family. However, fresh evidence uncovered by X-Ray technical analysis also revealed the hidden secrets lying beneath the painting’s surface. Not only has this examination affirmed that the canvas is indeed an autograph work by the artist, but crucially revealed that the work is the prime version of the composition, which was previously known to Rubens lovers through another version held for centuries in the collection of a second great Italian family, the Corsinis, and now hanging in the Galleria Corsini, Rome. The painting was offered this July in Sotheby’s Old Masters and 19th century Evening Sale in London with an estimate at £4-6 million. The painting sold for £4,895,600. Photography courtesy Sotheby's.

This page: DETAIL. Sir Peter Paul Rubens, Saint Sebastian tended by two angels, oil on canvas, 124 x 97.8 cm. Photography courtesy Sotheby's.

“This beautifully preserved painting, full of Rubens’ Italian experience, is proof that even great artists’ names can be lost to history. Thankfully the fascinating detail revealed by scientific analysis,

combined with meticulous research, and consideration by leading scholars, rightfully affirms the reattribution of this work to one of the greatest painters of his time, and shows us that there is still so much for us to discover, even about the artist’s best known works,” says George Gordon, Co-chairman, Old Master Paintings Worldwide, Sotheby’s.

This page: DETAIL. Sir Peter Paul Rubens, Saint Sebastian tended by two angels, oil on canvas, 124 x 97.8 cm. Photography courtesy Sotheby's.

Rubens’ composition of Saint Sebastian has long been known through the version hanging in the Corsini collection in Rome, acquired by Cardinal Neri Corsini (1685-1770) in Brussels by 1750, and until very recently thought to be unique. However new technical examination by X-Ray has been crucial in establishing that the Spinola painting is the prime original of the two. Revealing the working process of the artist by looking beneath the surface of the painting, X-Ray images demonstrated Rubens’ radical changes in design as he painted the Spinola version, altering and finessing the composition as he worked.

It is highly likely that the painting was commissioned by Ambrogio Spinola (1594-1630), an Italian nobleman and great military commander, with whom Rubens enjoyed shared diplomatic, political and artistic interests, and painted several times. The first known record of the painting is in the will of Filippo Spinola (Ambrogio’s son) in 1655, before it passed through successive generations of the family for eighty years until the trail dries up with his granddaughter Anna Spinola (listed in 1731 as having received the painting as part of the

inheritance from her father). With the painting passing out of the Spinola family name and through the female line of descent via Anna Spinola, the painting becomes untraceable until its reappearance in the United States 230 years later, in a collection in Missouri in 1963. It was later acquired by the present owner in the aforementioned auction in 2008 as a painting by Laurent de la Hyre.

The painting was likely executed circa 1606-8 in Italy, or circa 160910 in Antwerp, however there is no complete scholarly consensus. Rubens’ close association with the Spinola family, which began when he was first in Genoa in 1604, long outlasted his return to Antwerp in late 1608. And, while

the painting shares much in common with paintings from Rubens’s time in Rome, circa 1606-8, Rubens retained many elements of his Italian style, especially evident in paintings on canvas. Rubens returned from Italy in 1608 full of all he had seen and studied there, and immediately produced a series of paintings of towering significance within his work, reinterpreting these Italian and classical inspirations, and in particular Michelangelo, in his own uniquely powerful idiom.

The painting depicts the plight of Sebastian, an officer in the Roman army and a convert to Christianity, who was a victim of religious persecution. Bound to a tree, Sebastian was pierced by

soldiers’ arrows and left to die, before a miraculous intervention by angels took place. The excellent condition of the canvas allows Rubens’ outstanding technical ability to be easily appreciated - in particular the intricate white drapery held aloft by the angel on the left hand side of the painting.

To the left of the scene are pieces of embossed and fluted North Italian armour, discarded by Saint Sebastian in preparation for his martyrdom, which date back almost a century before the painting was produced. These particular examples of armour recur in several of Rubens’ works, and is evidence of the painter’s deep interest in the historicising effects of costume as a device to evoke the spirit of the past.

Above: Sir Peter Paul Rubens, Saint Sebastian tended by two angels, oil on canvas, 124 x 97.8 cm. Photography courtesy Sotheby's.

This is wine: its storied place and taste.

REGAL MONTRACHET THE QUEEN OF HEARTS

“Fruit of the earth, work of human hands, blessed be God forever”

This page: Puligny-Montrachet is a renowned wine village located in the Côte de Beaune region of Burgundy. It is celebrated for its prestigious white wines, particularly Chardonnay, known for their exceptional purity, elegance, and mineral-driven character, making Puligny-Montrachet one of the most sought-after appellations for white wine enthusiasts worldwide. Chardonnay vines growing in Puligny-Montrachet. Photography Bryan Dougherty.

mongst all the white wines of the world, by far the most famous, fabled and prized would have to be the idyllic hills of Montrachet with their five grand cru appellations all nestled in the Cote De Beaune mid-ridge ancient Jurassic slopes of Burgundy. Chardonnay grapes grown on chalk, limestone, and red marl or retsina thin soils in near-perfect weather conditions produce some of the most fragrant, powerfully rich, and yet delicate buttery melt-in-your-mouth whites that can be drunk young or savoured in their gilded old age, writes Kris Bonavita.

Centred around the two villages of Puligny and Chassagne five precious fields transcend vintage and are awarded grand cru status (Le Montrachet, Montrachet, Batard Montrachet, Bienvenues Batard Montrachet and Chevalier Montrachet are AOCs in their own right), but not far off especially in the right domaine hands, premier cru vineyards offer a good entry-level even if pricey array of delicious whites still incredibly good value considering the upwards of three to four or five figure sums needed for a bottle of the finer fare.

FOR CONSTANT REVIEWS ON WINES AVAILABLE IN MALTA AND GOZO FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM/FIRSTTHISISWINE

The Côte de Beaune mid-ridge is a historical and prized winemaking area in Burgundy situated along the eastern slopes of the Saône River valley. This region is renowned for its ancient Jurassic limestone soils, which impart unique mineral qualities to the wines. The mid-ridge's optimal sun exposure and diverse terroir create ideal conditions for producing some of Burgundy's most esteemed and sought-after Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines, exemplifying the essence of Burgundian winemaking.

This page: Vineyards in the southern part of Puligny-Montrachet. Chevalier-Montrachet is in the foreground, Montrachet is centre-right, followed by Bâtard-Montrachet and (on the left) BienvenuesBâtard-Montrachet. Centre-left, a small part of Le Cailleret is visible, and in the distance (in front of the buildings) are some village-level vineyards.

Photograhy Jonathan Caves.

Domaine Louis Jadot Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru La Garenne 2016

€105.14, exclusively represented by Attard and Co. Wines

Here we taste Louis Jadot’s PulignyMontrachet La Garenne, a premier cru vineyard or climat to the north of Puligny within the confines of the Hameau of Blagny a couple of fields away from the Montrachet grand cru courts; known for their buttery yet structured rich limestone flavours.

Domaine Louis Jadot is one of the largest and most important wine producers and merchant houses in Burgundy having 270 hectares of

holdings with an array of grand and premier cru down to village level high calibre wines.

Jadot’s Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru La Garenne 2016 is pale yellow straw in colour. On the nose white and yellow flowers and blond fruit pound cake with an entry of butter croissants, caramelised popcorn on a malt barley, allspice, nutmeg and vanilla bean finish. Pure, full, rich, silky and long; this is beautiful upon opening with an expansive repertoire that pairs well with a bevvy of exotic summer dishes.

Upon melting in the glass, poached Normandy pear, winter white peach, elderflower, candy floss bouquet with a fleshy and flashy evolution. Chalky high peaked yellow stoned fruit flavours with some verve and tang from the red clay marls and a sparkle of glinting mineral and metal for good measure, all wrapped up in a Persian honey cake seduction of glidingly pine nut/lemon oil infused midpalate yumminess.

Sheer panache and the perfect heat panacea.

For Domaine Louis Jadot Puligny-Montrachet Premier Cru La Garenne, grapes are harvested by hand and put in small cases in order not to damage the fruits. Grapes are pressed softly, they ferment in oak barrels produced by Louis Jadot's cooperage. 1/3 are new barrels. Aging usually lasts 15 months on fine lies before bottling. Above: Inside the cellars at Louis Jadot. Photograph courtesy Domaine Louis Jadot, © Sebastien Narbeburu.

SPARKLING CONVERSATIONALISTS

summer entertaining

“It had been a long time since she had been served such exquisite food. The lukewarm offerings at the London soirees and parties couldn't begin to compare to this feast. In the past few months the Peyton household been unable to afford much more than bread, bacon, and soup, with the occasional helping of fried sole or stewed mutton. For once she was glad not to have been seated next to a sparkling conversationalist, as it allowed her long periods of silence during which she could eat as much as she liked. And with the servants constantly offering new and dazzling dishes for the guests to sample, no one seemed to notice the unladylike gusto of her appetite.”

Lisa

“Summer cooking implies a sense of immediacy, a capacity to capture the essence of the fleeting moment.”

Elizabeth David, food writer (1913-1992)

Kleypas, Secrets of a Summer Night

Food Photography Brooke Lark. Dessert Photography Anita Austvika.

SUMMER PASTA WITH JAMÓN, RICOTTA AND LEMON

Linguine with fresh scallions, jamón, ricotta, lemon, and butter. Fresh and easy to prepare, this delightful combination of flavours will impress guests and family.

SERVES 6

500g linguine

6-8 fresh scallions (green onions), finely chopped 200g jamón (or prosciutto), thinly sliced and chopped 200g ricotta

1 lemon, zested and juiced

6 tablespoons unsalted butter salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste parsley

grated Parmesan =(optional, for serving)

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add linguine and cook until al dente, drain, reserve about 250ml of pasta cooking water.

2. In a large skillet or frying pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped scallions and cook for about 2 minutes until they start to soften. Stir in chopped jamón (or prosciutto) and cook for an additional 2 minutes until it becomes slightly crispy.

3. Reduce heat to low and add linguine. Toss pasta together with scallions and jamón until everything is well combined. Add parsley. Add lemon zest and half of lemon juice, tossing to coat linguine evenly. Taste and adjust lemon juice, salt, and pepper to your liking. If pasta seems dry, add a little reserved pasta cooking water to create a creamy sauce.

4 Once everything is well mixed and heated through, remove skillet from heat. Serve linguine in individual plates. Top each portion with a good dollop of ricotta, additional lemon zest, a drizzle of olive oil, grated Parmesan cheese, and some fresh ground pepper.

GRILLED SEA BREAM WITH LEMON AND ROSEMARY

This versatile dish can be served alongside your favorite side dishes, such as grilled vegetables, couscous, or a fresh green salad. If you don't have access to sea bream, you can use other whole fish suitable for grilling, such as sea bass or snapper. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the size and thickness of the fish.

SERVES 6

6 whole sea bream, cleaned and scaled (approximately 500g each each)

2 lemons, thinly sliced fresh rosemary sprigs

2tbspn crushed peppercorns

4tbspn olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced salt to taste freshly ground black pepper to taste lemon wedges, for serving

1. Rinse fish under cold running water and pat dry with paper towel. Make sure they are completely dry before grilling. Slit 2-3 diagonal cuts on each side of fish. This helps fish cook evenly and allows flavours to penetrate.

2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, crushed peppercorns, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Rub marinade all over fish, including slits and inside cavity. Refrigerate and allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil grill grates to prevent sticking. Take marinated fish out of refrigerator and allow to come to room

temperature. While fish is resting, place lemon slices and rosemary sprigs on hot grill for about 12 minutes on each side until they have grill marks.

4. Carefully place marinated fish on grill. Cook each side for about 4-6 minutes, depending on size of fish, until flesh is opaque and easily flakes with a fork. Avoid flipping fish too often to prevent sticking.

5. Once fish is grilled, transfer to a serving platter. Arrange grilled lemon slices and rosemary sprigs on top of fish. Garnish with extra crushed peppercorns and serve with lemon wedges.

BLUSH COLOURED LEMONADE

A refereshing drink for summer. You can use sparkling water instead of still for a fizzy version, and add a splash of grenadine syrup for a deeper blush colour and hint of sweetness. Garnish with fresh berries, such as cranberries or raspberries, to enhance the visual appeal.

SERVES 6

250ml freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)

125ml cranberry juice or pomegranate juice (for blush colour)

100g granulated sugar (adjust to your taste)

750ml cold water

ice cubes

fresh mint leaves and lemon slices for garnish

1. In a pitcher, combine freshly squeezed lemon juice and sugar. Stir well until sugar dissolves.

2. Pour in cranberry or pomegranate juice - adjust amount of juice based on desired blush colour intensity. Stir well to incorporate blush colour throughout.

3. Taste and add more sugar if needed to achieve desired level of sweetness. Stir until sugar is fully dissolved.

4. Add cold water and mix everything together. Adjust water quantity to preferred level of tartness or dilution.

5. Refrigerate to chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavours to meld together.

6. To serve fill each glass with ice cubes and garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a slice of lemon. Stir chilled lemonade again before pouring into prepared glasses. Serve immediately.

PERFECT HAMBURGERS

Enjoy these hearty and flavourful hamburgers with your favorite sides, such as French fries or a fresh salad. Feel free to customize with your favorite toppings and condiments –you can also add pickles, avocado slices, or any other ingredients you desire.

SERVES 6 FOR PATTIES

1kilo fresh ground beef (80% lean, 20% fat for juicy burgers)

2tspn salt

1tspn freshly ground black pepper

1tspn garlic powder

1tspn onion powder

FOR ASSEMBLING

12 hamburger buns (brioche or sesame seed buns work well)

12 slices of cheddar or your favorite cheese

12 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy

1 large red onion, thinly sliced

2-3 large tomatoes, sliced lettuce leaves condiments of your choice (ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, etc.)

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently but thoroughly with your hands. Divide mixture into 12 equal portions and form into patties, about 1/2inch thick. Make sure patties are slightly larger in diameter than hamburger buns as they will shrink during grilling.

2. Cook bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess grease.

3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they reach desired level of doneness. In last minute of grilling, add cheese slice on top of each patty and close lid to melt cheese.

4. While patties are grilling, lightly toast buns on grill for about 1-2 minutes until slightly crispy.

5. To assemble placing lettuce leaf on bottom half of each toasted bun. Add sliced tomatoes, and red onion. Add a grilled patty with melted cheese on top. Next, layer on cooked bacon. Add any additional condiments of your choice.

6. DOUBLE PATTY STACKING (OPTIONAL): If you want to make double-patty burgers, simply place another patty on top of first layer of toppings. You can add more cheese between patties for extra indulgence.

7. Finish assembling burgers by placing top half of hamburger buns on each patty creation. Serve immediately.

LIGHT CREAM LAYERED CAKE WITH STRAWBERRIES

A delicious and light summer 4-layer sponge cake filled with cream, iced with whipped cream, and decorated with fresh strawberries. Remember to keep this cake well refrigerated until serving, especially during hot weather, to maintain its freshness.

FOR SPONGE CAKE LAYERS

6 large eggs, room temperature

200g granulated sugar

120g all-purpose flour

1tspn baking powder

1/4tspn salt

1tspn vanilla extract

FOR CREAM FILLING

475ml heavy cream, chilled

25g icing sugar (adjust to taste)

1tspn vanilla extract

FOR WHIPPED CREAM ICING

475ml heavy cream, chilled

50g icing sugar (adjust to taste)

1tspn vanilla extract

FOR DECORATION

fresh strawberries or any berries of choice, washed and hulled

1. Preheat oven to 175°C. Grease and line four 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.

2. In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs and granulated sugar using an electric mixer until light, fluffy, and pale yellow (approx 5 minutes).

3. Sift flour, baking powder, and salt into egg mixture. Gently fold dry ingredients into batter using a spatula until fully combined. Do not overmix to keep cake light and airy. Stir in vanilla extract and mix until incorporated.

4. Divide batter equally between four prepared cake tins.

5. Bake for about 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into centre of each cake comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool in tins for 5 minutes. Then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

ENTERTAINING ASSEMBLING THE CAKE

While cakes are cooling, prepare cream filling and whipped cream icing.

FOR CREAM FILLING: In a chilled mixing bowl, beat heavy cream with an electric mixer until it starts to thicken. Gradually add icing sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to use. FOR

WHIPPED CREAM ICING: In a chilled mixing bowl beat heavy cream with an electric mixer until it starts to thicken. Gradually add icing sugar and vanilla extract while continuing to beat until stiff peaks form. Refrigerate until ready to ice.

Once cake layers are completely cooled, assemble. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand, spread a generous layer of cream filling on top of cake. Repeat with remaining cake layers and cream filling. After stacking all layers, ice entire cake with whipped cream frosting. You can smooth sides and top using a spatula for a clean finish. Decorate with fresh strawberries, whole or sliced, or any berries of choice. Once decorated, refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours to let flavours meld and cream set. Serve well-chilled.

LEMON RICOTTA CHEESECAKE

For 6 people

FOR THE BASE

10 all butter digestive biscuits

100 gr unsalted butter

20 gr brown sugar

FOR THE FILLING

500 gr Ricotta by Galbani

2 lemons

100 gr sugar

2 sheets gelatine (2 gr each)

150 ml whipping cream

PREPARING THE BASE

Crush the biscuits and add to the sugar and softened butter. Spoon and press down the mixture into individual moulds with a removable base (or individual glass serving dishes) and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

PREPARING THE FILLING

Soften the sheets of gelatine in cold water. Chop the lemon rinds and put them into a pot with 50 ml of water and 100 gr of sugar. Bring to the boil for 5 minutes. Remove the lemon rinds but keep the water. Add the lemon juice to the water and bring to the boil for a further 3 minutes. Put the sheets of gelatine into this syrup and let it cool down. Whisk the ricotta and then add it to the syrup when cold. Whisk the cream and incorporate it into the ricotta mixture. Pour the mixture into the moulds, put them in the fridge for 6 hours.

SUMMER SPECIAL

THE TRUTH ABOUT SUN PROTECTION AND SPF PART II

FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH? SUNBURNS AND SKIN CANCER. AND HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT BLUE LIGHT?

Are you a sun worshipper or heading to a sunny spot this summer? Play safe with a good SPF. Heading into a sunny summer vacation, you need to be extra cautious with skin care due to the increased exposure to harmful UV rays. Sunburns can cause immediate damage, while cumulative exposure over time can lead to premature aging and increase the risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen can literally be seen as youth in a pot –for your skin at least. With a plethora of light-weight, waterproof, scent-free formulas available there's no excuse. Here is a no-nonsense breakdown of the nuts and bolts of sunscreen, sunburn, and what may be a new term for some –blue light.

PHOTOGRAPHY AMAFLI COAST –THIS PAGE CAPRI, PAGES 64 AND 66 SORRENTO, PAGE 68 CAPRI. Photographers Josh Feiber, Moira Nazzari, Lawrence Chismorie and Sofia.

LOBSTER RED? NO THANK YOU THE BASICS

Sunburn is a clear sign of skin damage caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The DNA in your skin cells can be harmed by UV radiation, and simply put, repeated sunburns can increase the risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, the most serious type. Sunburn also accelerates the aging process of the skin, damaging the skin’s structural components, such as collagen and elastin, resulting in premature aging signs like wrinkles, fine lines, sagging, age spots, and a leathery texture –highlighting the importance of protecting the skin from the sun’s harmful rays to maintain its health and youthful appearance.

Excessive sun exposure is harmful to the eyes due to the potential damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to a range of eye conditions, including photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea), cataracts (clouding of the eye's lens), and macular degeneration (damage to the central part of the retina). UV radiation can cause immediate discomfort, such as redness, pain, and sensitivity to light, and can contribute to long-term vision problems and even vision loss. Wearing sunglasses with UV protection and a wide-brimmed hat are essential in shielding the eyes from the sun's harmful rays and maintaining optimal eye health.

To prevent sunburn and protect your skin from harmful UV radiation, it is essential to take the following precautions. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, arms, and legs. Reapply every two hours or more frequently if you are sweating or swimming. When the sun's rays are strongest, typically between 10 am and 4 pm, try to stay in the shade or use umbrellas, hats, and clothing to provide additional protection. Cover your skin with lightweight, tightly woven clothing that shields you from the sun. Minimize your time in direct sunlight, especially during peak hours. If you plan to be outdoors, take regular breaks in shaded areas.

SKIN CANCER THE FACTS

Repeated sun exposure without the use of Sun Protection Factor (SPF) can potentially increase the risk of skin cancer due to the harmful effects of UV radiation. When the skin is exposed to the sun’s UV rays, it can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations and the potential for uncontrolled cell growth, which can result in skin cancer.

The cumulative damage caused by frequent sun exposure over time can increase the likelihood of developing skin cancer, such as melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Skin cancer is a serious concern, and protecting your skin from UV radiation is crucial in reducing the risk. Consistent use of sunscreen significantly decreases the chances of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, the most dangerous type.

Both young and older individuals should be concerned about skin cancer. While the risk of developing skin cancer increases with age, excessive sun exposure and UV radiation can impact anyone, regardless of their age. It's important for people of all ages to take sun protection measures and be mindful of their

sun exposure. Early prevention and adopting healthy sun-safe habits from a young age can significantly reduce the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. However, it's never too late to start taking precautions and being aware of potential risks, even if you're older. Regular skin checks and monitoring any changes in moles or skin abnormalities are important for everyone, regardless of age.

SPF in sunscreen plays a crucial role in preventing skin cancer by reducing the harmful effects of UVradiation from the sun. SPF measures the sunscreen's ability to protect the skin from UVB rays, which are the primary cause of sunburn and can contribute to the development of skin cancer.

When you apply sunscreen with a high SPF, it forms a protective barrier on the skin that

absorbs and reflects UVB rays, preventing them from penetrating the deeper layers of the skin. By blocking these damaging rays, SPF reduces the risk of immediate sunburn and minimizes the long-term DNA damage that can lead to skin cancer.

It's important to note that while higher SPF values offer increased protection against UVB rays, no sunscreen can provide complete protection from all UV radiation. Therefore, it's crucial to use other sun protection measures like seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding sun exposure during peak hours to further reduce the risk of skin cancer. Regularly applying sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF can significantly decrease the likelihood of developing skin cancer over time.

THE BLUE LIGHT CONNECTION AGEING BLUES

Blue light refers to the high-energy visible (HEV) light in the blue-violet spectrum, typically emitted by the sun and electronic devices like smartphones, computers, and LED screens (however, it is important to note that the amount of blue light exposure from electronic devices is significantly lower than the exposure to UV radiation from the sun). The concern regarding blue light arises from its ability to penetrate the skin more deeply compared to UVA and UVB rays.

Blue light can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the skin, leading to oxidative stress. ROS are unstable molecules that can cause damage to cellular structures, including proteins, lipids, and DNA. This oxidative stress can trigger inflammation and disrupt the skin's natural repair processes, potentially contributing to skin aging. Blue light exposure has been suggested to promote the breakdown of collagen, the protein responsible for maintaining skin's strength, elasticity, and firmness. Collagen degradation can lead to the development of wrinkles and fine lines, contributing to the aging process. Some studies suggest that blue light exposure may stimulate melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells in the skin. This stimulation can potentially lead to an overproduction of melanin, resulting in hyperpigmentation issues like dark

spots or melasma. Blue light exposure has been shown to trigger inflammatory responses in the skin. Chronic or repetitive inflammation can contribute to skin aging, as it can break down collagen and elastin fibers and impair skin barrier function.

It is thought that blue light may induce changes in the skin that make it more susceptible to UVA damage. To protect your skin from potential blue light effects, incorporate skincare products containing antioxidants like vitamins C and E, niacinamide, or resveratrol. These can help neutralize free radicals generated by blue light. While traditional sunscreens primarily protect against UVA and UVB rays, some newer formulations also offer additional protection against blue light. Look for sunscreens labeled as “broadspectrum” or “blue light protection.”

MENTAL HEALTH AND SLOWING THE CLOCK

The message is clear. Stay active for a better quality of life as you age. Regular exercise is crucial for healthy aging, as it improves strength, flexibility, and balance, reducing the risk of falls and injuries. It helps manage weight and chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. Studies show exercise is linked to better cognitive function, reduced risk of cognitive decline, and improved mental well-being. So the question is, aren't you worth it?

MENTAL HEALTH BENEFITS. Exercise has been found to have numerous positive effects on mental health because it releases endorphins, reducing stress and anxiety. It improves mood, self-esteem, and sleep quality, fostering better cognitive function and social interaction. Studies suggest that physical activity is associated with better cognitive function and a reduced risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Exercise promotes better blood flow to the brain, enhances memory and thinking skills, and contributes to overall mental well-being.

STRESS REDUCTION Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Exercise helps reduce the levels of stress hormones like cortisol, leading to lower stress levels.

ANXIETY AND DEPRESSION RELIEF Regular exercise has been shown to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. It can improve mood, increase self-esteem, and provide a sense of accomplishment.

IMPROVED SLEEP Exercise can help regulate sleep patterns, leading to better quality sleep. Sufficient rest is crucial for maintaining good mental health.

COGNITIVE FUNCTION Physical activity has been linked to improved cognitive function, including better memory, attention, and problem-solving skills.

SOCIAL INTERACTION Participating in group exercise or sports can enhance social connections, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.

AGEING BENEFITS As individuals age, physical activity becomes even more important for maintaining overall health and well-being and exercise offers several benefits –at any age.

BRAIN HEALTH Regular exercise has been associated with reduced cognitive decline and a decreased risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and dementia.

MUSCLE STRENGTH AND BALANCE Strength training and weight-bearing exercises help maintain muscle mass and bone density, reducing the risk of falls and fractures.

CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH Regular aerobic exercise improves heart health, lowers blood pressure, and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

JOINT HEALTH Exercise can help improve joint flexibility and reduce the risk of arthritis and joint pain.

MOOD ENHANCEMENT Similar to its effects on mental health, exercise can positively impact mood and emotional well-being in older adults.

INDEPENDENCE AND QUALITY OF LIFE Staying active in old age promotes independence, allowing individuals to maintain their ability to perform daily tasks and enjoy a higher quality of life.

Overall, exercise is a powerful tool for maintaining mental health and supporting healthy ageing. It is essential to engage in regular physical activity that suits individual capabilities and preferences to reap these benefits fully. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting a new exercise regimen, especially if you have any existing health conditions.

An unexpected question about anxiety while travelling left Janet Silvio, CEO HILA Homes, questioning disabilities and mental health diagnoses –while a disability or a mental health condition can create several increased challenges it does not mean that a person must be looked at differently or else excluded from things just because of their condition. We all go through different struggles in our lives, some more than others, but we all deserve to be seen, heard, accepted, and given a choice.

IT’S MY CHOICE

I recently returned from a two-week trip to the Azores, an archipelago composed of nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean. We journeyed mostly by scooter around three of the islands through lush vegetation, mild weather and traffic-free roads which had an instant positive psychological impact compared to our densely populated and polluted island. One of the highlights of this trip was joining a small group to swim with wild dolphins, which was very thrilling, as all new experiences tend to be. Before we set off, the marine biologist who was leading this experience, had a few questions to ask us during the briefing, one of which took me a bit by surprise and made me contemplate for quite a while, writes Janet Silvio, CEO

HILA Homes.

Her question was whether any of us suffered from anxiety because, if so, this experience was not recommended. I had to be rapid in answering –I wanted to do the experience, but I suffer from anxiety and was unable to understand how having one could hinder doing the other. I love the sea and am very comfortable swimming and diving in deep waters since I am also an advanced pen water diverso what did anxiety have to do with this experience?

When I asked her to be more specific, she explained that if a person has anxiety, getting into the water in a slowmoving boat to swim with wild dolphins might be overwhelming. She did answer my question, so my answer had to be negative, but many other questions started to fill my mind.

If I had answered yes, why would I have to be excluded from an experience I wanted to do? Shouldn’t I be the one to decide? Why was anxiety being referred to in such a broad context when different individuals suffer from different causes of anxiety? Why wasn’t the question asked prior to booking the experience and not five minutes before it started in front of everyone, putting a person in a position to expose their fragility even if they would not be comfortable doing so?

My reflection on this small incident projected me towards what I have been personally striving myself in the past years since HILA’s inception –to see the person before anything else –that disability or a mental health diagnosis does not define you and that even if two people have the same condition, they are still different because they are individuals and unique. Whilst having a disability or a mental health condition can create several increased challenges it does not mean that a person must be looked at differently or else excluded from things just because of their condition. If society keeps looking at differences, fragilities, and diagnoses as a reason for excluding individuals from experiencing life in its entirety, we will never be able to give the dignity that every human being deserves.

I owe my own acceptance and embracing my challenge to our clients - they have unknowingly taught me that showing fragility and being open about it is not a weakness, but indeed a strength and that in my role as CEO of HILA I owed it to them, to myself and to others

to talk about it freely since there is nothing to be ashamed of. We all go through different struggles in our lives, some more than others, but we all deserve to be seen, heard, accepted, and given a choice.

During this year that CareMalta Group is celebrating its 30 years of offering care and support, nine years of which extended also to persons with disability, mental health conditions, and motor-neuron diseases through HILA, it was always the Group’s prerogative and priority to safeguard the dignity of every individual, placing the person at the centre of all that is done. I have the certainty that most would agree with such a statement, unaware of how hard this is to achieve and to maintain in real life due to the many barriers existing in our society.

I believe we can all play a part in helping each other to be better, feel better, and create and be part of a community where we are all treated equally - but the change needs to start today, first within us, by accepting who we are and then towards others, to pave a road where inclusion is no longer a topic which needs to be discussed.

GOING CARBON NEUTRAL. SUSTAINABILITY. REDUCING EMISSIONS. URBAN GREENING AND OPEN GREEN SPACES.

ENVIRONMENT EXPLAINED

urgent or relevant. However climate change requires significant changes to current lifestyles, consumption patterns, and industries and while you might find yourself fearing the uncertainties and disruptions that these changes could bring, or not understanding the terminology used, knowledge helps to empower. This is environment explained.

Climate change is one of the most critical challenges facing humanity today –scientists have been talking about it for decades. It refers to the long-term alteration of Earth’s climate due to human activities, primarily the emission of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O), which trap heat in the atmosphere and lead to global warming. To mitigate the impacts of climate change, the concept of “going carbon neutral” has gained significant importance.

Going carbon neutral means achieving a balance between the amount of greenhouse gases emitted and removed from the atmosphere. This is typically achieved through sustainable practices that reduce emissions and promote carbon sequestration. By transitioning to renewable energy sources, adopting energy-efficient technologies, and implementing carbon capture and storage methods, individuals, businesses, and governments can significantly reduce their carbon footprints.

Sustainability plays a key role in addressing climate change. It involves making choices that meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Emphasizing sustainability in all aspects of life, from energy consumption to resource management, ensures a healthier and more stable planet for the long term. Reducing emissions is a crucial step in combating climate change. By curbing the release of greenhouse gases, we can slow down global warming and reduce the severity of its consequences. Transitioning to a low-carbon economy not only mitigates climate change but also fosters innovation, creates green jobs, and improves public health by reducing air pollution.

Urban greening and open green spaces also play an essential role in addressing climate change and creating sustainable cities. Green spaces, such as parks, gardens, and urban forests, absorb CO2 and provide valuable habitats for biodiversity.They also act as natural cooling systems, mitigating the urban heat island effect and reducing energy consumption for air conditioning.

Furthermore, green spaces offer numerous social and psychological benefits. They improve mental well-being, provide recreational opportunities, and promote community cohesion. By integrating green spaces into urban planning, cities can create healthier, more livable environments that enhance the overall quality of life for their residents.

Going carbon neutral through sustainability and emission reduction is crucial to combat climate change and safeguard the future of our planet. Additionally, investing in urban greening and open green spaces not only contributes to climate resilience but also enhances the well-being of urban dwellers, making cities more vibrant and sustainable places to live. Collectively, these efforts serve as vital pillars in the fight against climate change and the pursuit of a greener, more sustainable world.

The point is that we just need to actively do these things.

SO WHAT CAN YOU DO AT A HOUSEHOLD LEVEL? The most basic thing would be to switch to energy-efficient LED light bulbs and use water saving taps and showers. For a dramatic saving using the “dry mode” on air conditioning can save up to 30% energy as it focuses on dehumidifying the air without excessive cooling – with the reduced humidity the feel temperature is lower. Dry mode is best suited for moderately hot and humid conditions. For the most energy-efficient operation, use a programmable thermostat, avoid very low settings, and ensure proper insulation and sealing in the home. It’s essential to note that dry mode is not suitable for extremely hot conditions, as it may not provide adequate cooling. A smart and eco-friendly way to improve energy efficiency in a building is planting creepers, especially on south-facing walls. Creepers, like ivy or climbing plants, create a natural layer of insulation, reducing heat absorption through the walls during hot weather. By providing shade and cooling the building, creepers help lower the need for air conditioning, ultimately reducing energy consumption. Additionally, they contribute to biodiversity, offer aesthetic appeal, and help combat urban heat island effects. However, it’s essential to consider the type of creeper and its potential impact on the building’s structure, as some creepers can cause damage if not managed properly.

Photography Lucija Ros.

GREEN TRAVEL PLANS

Rethinking Business Travel

Buzzwords such as sustainability and corporate responsibility are increasingly popular as people become more aware of the need to protect the environment and reduce their carbon footprint. Many enterprises are also recognising the importance of shifting to more sustainable practices to maintain their relevance and competitiveness in an ever more environmentally conscious society. The latter being one that is mindful of the effect that its actions have on the environment and, actively seeking to go the extra mile to ensure that the impact is minimized. In this perspective, sustainability within the business community serves a critical purpose at an economic level, a social level, and an environmental level (ESG) leading it to become an integral part of the corporate strategy. Of course, driving sustainability in organisations has its challenges including reservations from critical decision makers, costings, lack of commitment, and in some instances gaps in available resources writes

Laura Sue Armeni, Director Risk Management, Policy and EU Affairs, Transport Malta. Photography Joshua Kettle.

In light of all this business travel emerges as one component where change can be fast, more economically viable and more productive. Undoubtedly one of the causalities of COVID-19, many had become accustomed to doing away with business travel and instead resorted to the new normal of remote and hybrid work. This was mainly instigated by lockdowns and, as a result, we now have widely available alternatives to enable remote working to continue to be the norm. Organisations can capitalise on this through the introduction of Green Travel Plans which make a public statement on their corporate commitment towards sustainability both in their vision and operations. These policies in themselves encourage less environmentally damaging and, in many cases, more economical transport modes whilst promoting the introduction of alternative methods of operation and commuting.

From studies conducted by Transport Malta, it transpires that in most areas traffic congestion primarily occurs during the time when people are commuting to and from work, with the majority of trips undertaken by the employee or employer using their private car with no accompanying passengers. In this regard, Green Travel Plans incentivise cost saving across the board for both the employer and the employee, with the main results being a reduction in traffic congestion and travel time and better air quality. Businesses also benefit by reducing business travel costs, improving the physical and mental health of staff, reducing parking problems, and promoting an environmentally conscious corporate image.

In view of this, in September 2022 Transport Malta launched the Green Travel Plan Scheme for Private

Enterprises to entice businesses to implement and promote environmentally sustainable travel plans. Businesses were required to submit a 2-year action plan with consideration for a minimum of 2 different alternative modes of mobility in the first year and an additional mode of mobility for the following year. The grant, in the form of a reimbursed contribution, was split into three categories offering a maximum of: €24,000 for large enterprises, €15,000 for medium enterprises and €10,000 for small and micro enterprises. Markedly, amongst the many activities currently being undertaken by the successful applicants one may note the setting up of transport committees; the organisation of collective transport vans operating from combined locations to pool route; the provision of financial incentives for employees for the purchase of sustainable vehicles that are

to be used (although not exclusively) for commuting to work; the provision of providing secure bicycle/e-scooter parking facilities; the introduction of reward schemes for those who choose to walk or use public transport and; the incentivising of carpooling by providing information via information boards across company premises.

Of course, transitioning one’s business to more sustainable travel is easier said than done however, every step in the right direction will contribute directly towards a healthier planet for all. In this, there are no shortcuts to success.

Transport Malta congratulates Trelleborg Sealing Solutions Malta, Michael Debono Ltd., Reasch Quartz (Malta) Ltd, Adi Associates Environmental Consultants Ltd, and EnSure Ltd for embarking on this initiative towards Green Travel Planning.

DID YOU KNOW? Sea urchins play a vital role in the Mediterranean Sea ecology as they are herbivores that graze on algae, helping to control algae populations and maintain the health and balance of the underwater ecosystem. Their feeding habits prevent algae overgrowth, which can have significant negative impacts on marine biodiversity and water quality.

A MORATORIUM TO PRESERVE OUR SEA URCHINS

LET’S TAKE ACTION NOW!

A recent study commissioned by the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) has raised alarming concerns about the fate of one of our marine creatures –the stony sea urchin or rizzi in Maltese. Population numbers of our rizzi have dwindled and efforts to safeguard them from the risk of extinction are now in place, writes the team at the Environment and Resources Authority.

Alegal notice (L.N. 149 of 2023) on the protection of the stony sea urchin populations in Maltese waters was issued by the government on July 7th this year imposing a moratorium on the harvesting of our rizzi. Tis moratorium is set to last for two years, during which, no person is allowed to disturb, destroy, have in possession, transport, sell, exchange or export any specimen due to the rapidly declining population. Any person who contravenes will be penalised and shall be liable to a hefy fne.

Te implications of losing these spiny invertebrates extend far beyond their aesthetic beauty and gastronomic value – they play a key role in maintaining the ecological balance and health of our marine environment. Sea urchins serve as food for 18 diferent fsh species. Moreover, their absence increases the risk of invasive alien species that negatively impact ecosystems.

Another initiative aimed at increasing their population numbers involves a restocking programme, where sea urchins will be cultivated at San Luċjan by the Department of Aquaculture and will, eventually, be released into the sea. In addition, sea urchins will also be collected from

the sea and monitored in a laboratory environment by studying their growth, nutrition and DNA to ensure that their reproductive health is optimal.

Te ultimate goal is to revive the sea urchin population to sustainable levels, thereby fostering a healthier marine ecosystem for generations to come through the implementation of these initiatives.

Whilst sea urchin collection is now illegal, their importation is still allowed to meet consumer demand while safeguarding the local population from further exploitation. However, restaurant owners and fsh importers are required to keep the necessary documentation to verify the origin of the catch if inspected by authorities.

Overall, the measures taken by the government, including the moratorium and the restocking programme, are vital steps to protect the stony sea urchin population. By implementing these measures and raising awareness about the importance of a healthy marine ecosystem and its conservation, it is hoped that sea urchin populations will recover and thrive once again.

“Love is a house with many rooms, this room to feed the love, this one to entertain it, this one to clean it, this one to dress it, this one to allow it to rest, and each of these rooms can also just as well be the room for laughing or the room for listening or the room for apologizing or the room for intimate togetherness, and, of course, there are the rooms for the new members of the household.”

Yann Martel, The High Mountains of Portugal

Postcard from Faro

Historical charm, stunning coastline, and pleasant Mediterranean climate. Faro, located in the southern region of Portugal, serves as the capital city of the Algarve. The old town of Faro is surrounded by medieval walls and is home to cobbled streets, charming squares, and historic buildings like the Faro Cathedral, dating back to the 13th century. Faro offers a laid-back and relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal place to unwind, escape the rush of everyday life, and enjoy a glass of well chilled Port. Photography Micheile Henderson.

Cidade Velha, the old town, is the historic heart of Faro. Arco da Vila, the ancient city gate that serves as the main entrance features an arch adorned with traditional Portuguese tiles, azulejos, and passing through is like stepping back in time.Narrow streets lined with traditional architecture make it a wonderful place to explore on foot and get lost.Faro Cathedral, Sé Catedral de Faro,one of the most important landmarks in the old town,dates back to the 13th century and combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroquearchitectural styles. Climbing the tower gives stunning views of the city and surrounding areas. Closeby, São Francisco Church, Igreja de São Francisco, hides intricate golden carvings and beautifully decorated chapels inside its Baroquestyle interior.

Azulejos can be seen all over the town, and their use can be traced back to Moorish rule in the 8th century. The Moors introduced the art of ceramic tiles to the Iberian Peninsula, and this influence continued after the Christian reconquest.The Moorish influence from North Africa, especially from places like the Alhambra in Spain, played a significant role in shaping the geometric and intricate patterns.During the Age of Discovery in the 15th and 16th centuries, Portugal was at the forefront of maritime exploration and Portuguese ships traveled to various parts of the world, including North Africa, India, China, and Brazil.

These voyages brought back new artistic influences and decorative styles, which were incorporated into the design of tiles.The Portuguese royalty and nobility played a significant role in promoting the use of tiles as a form of artistic expression, and many palaces, churches, and important buildings commissioned talented tile artists to create intricate and elaborate tile panels and decorations.Besides their artistic appeal, azulejos also served practical purposes–used to cover and protect walls from moisture and heat.

“When I sing, it’s the most solitary state: just me, and the microphone, and the holy spirit. It’s not about notes or scales, it’s all about emotion.”

SINÉAD O’CONNOR, 8TH DECEMBER 1966 –JULY 2023

The Lion and The Cobra

Sinéad O’Connor is widely regarded as one of the most influential female performers of the 90s, not only for her powerful vocals and emotionally charged performances, but also for her outspoken confidence to express herself publicly. She gained international fame in the late 1980s with her hit song “Nothing Compares 2 U” and has been an influential figure in the music industry for her unique blend of folk, rock, and alternative styles. O’Connor died this July at 56. “I once heard Sìnead sing acappella in an empty chapel in Ireland. It was under construction at the private home of our host. It was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever heard in my life”, wrote Jamie Lee Curtis on her Instagram page. “...I loved her. Her music. Her life. She was a victim of child abuse and a huge change agent for unfair and unjust draconian laws that she helped change in Ireland. She was a warrior. She was a rebel. She ripped up a photograph that was on her mother’s wall because of the hypocrisy of the abusive life she was raised in under the banner of the church... Rest well. Rest in power. Rest in peace.”

This page: Sinead O’Connor in promotional photo, Distributed by Chrysalis Records, circa 1987. Photographer unknown. Her debut album The Lion and the Cobra was followed by

“I don’t do anything in order to cause trouble. It just so happens that what I do naturally causes trouble. I’m proud to be a troublemaker.”

Sinead O’Connor